Stages of a construction case

Every case moves through stages; the stage shows how close a project is to becoming a building. Here is what each stage means and the order they usually come in.

1. Prior information request

   Prior information request: the developer asks the council what may be built, before filing a project.

   Council reply: 15–45 working days by complexity; silence counts as approval.

2. Under licensing

   Project filed; the council is reviewing it.

   Completeness ~20, architecture ~30, decision ~20–45 working days (legal limit).

3. Architecture approved

   Architecture approved; specialties and the permit come next.

   Architecture accepted; specialties and the permit follow.

4. Permit issued

   Permit (alvará) issued: building may start.

   Permit (alvará) issued — building may start.

5. Prior communication

   Prior communication: a simpler route, without a full licence.

   No waiting period: works start after paying the fees.

Timelines vary widely — from months to years. The law sets deadlines for the council to reply, but the real time depends on the project, the specialties and the council itself. Issuing a permit does not guarantee the works go ahead.

Types of works: what each one means

You may copy and reuse this data as long as you credit the source with a link to flatin.pt. Better still, link to this page: that way the reader can check the number. Terms of use